After more than a decade without its most famous vacationer, the quiet Italian town of Castel Gandolfo can once again count the pope among its summer residents. Pope Leo XIV became the 16th pope to reside in the papal summer residence when he moved there for the month of July. Before leaving Rome, the pope told pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square, “I hope that everyone will be able to enjoy some vacation time in order to restore both body and spirit.” Here are a few ways to restore your spirit that are inspired by the pope’s summer residence.
There is something both grounding and sacred about spending time in a garden, as it can help you feel connected to nature and inspired by the beauty of God’s creation. The gardens of the papal villa at Castel Gandolfo are home to the “Borgo Laudato Si’” project, which Pope Francis set up to promote ecology education. There are many online sources that offer easy tips to help you create an eco-friendly garden using native plants that minimize the need for watering and attract beneficial insects. Plus, organic soils and pesticide-free gardening methods are healthier choices for your vegetables and herbs.